Honolulu City Council members clueless about ethics code, 46,000 seniors to lose Medicare Advantage coverage, Royal Hawaiian wins award, micro-apartments for Kakaako, Ebola scare a wake-up call, Ellison may close both Lanai Four Seasons for renovations, Native Hawaiian government to be postponed again, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Royal Hawaiian Resort courtesy photo

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort in Waikiki, was named Best Historic Resort at the annual Historic Hotels of America 2014 Awards of Excellence gala Thursday in Washington, D.C.  Star-Advertiser.

Pollution in Hawaii is giving turtles deadly tumors, a new study found. Researchers at Duke University, the University of Hawaii and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have determined that nitrogen runoff is polluting the algae that turtles eat, causing them to develop tumors in their eyes, flippers and internal organs. Civil Beat.

A group of organizations leading the process of building a Native Hawaiian government is considering postponing the election of officers until June. The board of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs heard the news at a meeting Thursday. Associated Press.

With the voter registration deadline approaching, the number of registered voters has ticked upward on neighbor islands and dipped on Oahu compared with figures tallied two years ago. The deadline to register to vote in the general election is Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association plans to discontinue its five Medicare Advantage plans for 46,000 seniors on Dec. 31. The state's largest health insurer, which covers the bulk of Hawaii's Medicare population, estimates it lost about $64.1 million last year on its plans -- called Akamai Advantage -- due to higher-than-expected medical claims as well as lower federal Medicare reimbursements. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of HMSA members may be in for a surprise. HMSA is ending its Medicare plan for thousands of residents next year. Coverage through HMSA’s Akamai Advantage is ending December 31, 2014 and if customers don’t choose a new plan before then, they could lose their prescription drug coverage and more. KHON2.

Though the state has ruled out what was feared to be Hawaii's first Ebola case, health officials are on high alert for possible new cases reaching the islands. Star-Advertiser.

How Did We Handle Hawaii’s Ebola Scare? What can we learn from a week when the deadly virus from Africa was discovered in the U.S. and inspired fears it had reached Oahu? Civil Beat.

The State of Hawai‘i has approximately 90,000 cesspools, the majority of which pose potential health risks to residents via water contamination. The Department of Health is proposing changes to its administrative rules that would begin to reduce the number of cesspools in the state through infrastructure upgrades. Hawaii Independent.

A state plan for homeowners to get rid of their cesspools the next time a property sells is receiving pushback. KITV4.

Oahu

The two longest-serving members of the Honolulu City Council, who are now caught up in an ethics investigation, claim they had no idea they were not allowed to accept free meals from lobbyists and they're asking for clarification of the rules. The city Ethics Commission is investigating if it was illegal for four former council members as well as current members Ann Kobayashi and Ikaika Anderson to accept pricey meals from lobbyists with business before the council. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell and state officials are working on a plan to allow the city to take over the law enforcement role at Waikiki's Fort DeRussy Beach, where homeless campers are taking advantage of a jurisdictional loophole to avoid being cited for violating city regulations. Star-Advertiser.

As the City and County of Honolulu has begun enforcing a new law banning homeless from sitting or lying on sidewalks in Waikiki, more homeless are spending their nights at the Honolulu International Airport. State transportation officials say there's nothing they can do about it because there are no law against sleeping at the airport. Hawaii News Now.

While Kakaako is better known for luxury condos than affordable housing, the growing urban district in Honolulu could soon see a new kind of residence: tiny studio apartments no bigger than 300 square feet, or about 15 by 20 feet. Civil Beat.

A credit-rating agency has added a negative tinge to its outlook on bonds sold by Hawaii Pacific University last year to finance the redevelopment of parts of the Aloha Tower Marketplace retail complex in downtown Honolulu for university use. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police will not release the full surveillance video showing an off-duty sergeant assaulting his ex-girlfriend as initially planned. The full video was supposed to be shown to everyone at a briefing on Tuesday, but some lawmakers did not like that idea and decided to watch it at a later time in private. Now, they won’t get that chance. KHON2.

When it comes to key policy issues facing the city of Honolulu, not a lot separates the two attorneys running for the District 4 Honolulu City Council race. Civil Beat.

How Safe Has the Honolulu Rail Project Been? Worker injury rates have been well below state and national average. But concerns remain over excavation procedures. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Hawai'i County Civil Defense officials say a breakout upslope of the Puna lava flow has advanced another 100 yards since overtaking the stalled leading edge on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

A breakout on the lava flow encroaching on Pahoa advanced ahead of the former flow front Thursday, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense. The breakout advanced about 100 yards between daily overflights, according to Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

One of the concerns of Hawaii County officials and residents is how the recent and current disasters —Tropical Storm Iselle and the lava flow —will affect Hawaii Island's economy. Hawaii Public Radio.

Big Island health care facilities remain on the lookout for Ebola symptoms following the announcement Thursday that state health officials determined a patient in isolation on Oahu was not carrying the deadly virus. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A gubernatorial debate hosted by the Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce is slated for this morning. Associated Press.

Though Maui County is not currently in a state of drought, Upcountry reservoir levels dipped low last month, prompting water department officials to call for a 10 percent voluntary cutback on Upcountry water usage for the next two to three months. Maui News.

Kauai

A former member of the Kauai Police Commission is being sentenced for running a sports gambling business. Bradley Chiba is scheduled to be sentenced Friday in federal court in Honolulu. Associated Press.

Some Kauai residents are at odds over proposed changes to state Department of Health regulations that would prohibit new cesspools from being built and require existing ones to be upgraded when properties are sold. Garden Island.

An anticipated revival in construction could boost Kauai’s economy and compensate for a projected decline in tourism. That was the message from economist Dr. Jack Suyderhoud, who spoke at First Hawaiian Bank’s 40th Economic Outlook Forum Thursday at Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison’s Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay and The Lodge at Koele, the two major resorts on the island, may be closed at the same time next year as renovations take place at one of the properties. Pacific Business News.

Ebola unlikely for Honolulu patient, Star-Advertiser parent buys Big Isle newspapers, Abercrombie supporter Caldwell switches allegiance to Ige, state road turned over to county as lava advances, Hawaii coffee labeling at issue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Red coffee cherry © 2014 All Hawaii News

A Hawaii County Council committee reached an agreement on a proposed resolution that’s being touted as a way to encourage truth in labeling on coffee packages here. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has been lending his support to fellow Democrats he’d like to see win this November, namely state Sen. David Ige in his bid for governor and state Rep. Mark Takai in his run for Congress. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has spent at least $142,290 on its campaign to discourage Hawaii voters from approving a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow the state to spend public money on private preschool programs, according to publicly available documents. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Thursday a patient isolated in a Honolulu hospital does not appear to have symptoms consistent with the Ebola virus, Hawaii News Now has learned.

A person admitted to a Honolulu hospital was isolated because of the possibility that the patient contracted the Ebola virus, state Department of Health officials confirmed Wednesday afternoon. Health officials declined to provide details about the identity of the person, the symptoms or the hospital, citing federal privacy laws, but the Honolulu Star-Advertiser has learned that the patient is male and is at the Queen's Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

While the chances of someone spreading the Ebola virus while on a plane are low,airport officials tell us they still have procedures in place for Ebola as well as other infectious diseases. KHON2.

Wahiawa General Hospital is cutting the equivalent of 100 full-time positions amid claims that it owes University of Hawaii medical school physicians $800,000 in back pay. Star-Advertiser.

An Ewa developer being sued by home buyers unhappy that the company never built a promised marina is now asking the court to prohibit the plaintiffs from releasing additional information to the press about the project. Civil Beat.

A plan to redevelop most of the Ward Warehouse retail center in Kakaako with two high-rise condominiums received mostly positive public testimony at a state hearing Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed an executive order Wednesday granting Hawaii County its portion of Chain of Craters Road. Tribune-Herald.

The owner of Hawaii's largest newspaper bought two daily publications on Hawaii's Big Island and several newspapers in Washington state. Oahu Publications, which owns the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, said Wednesday it is buying West Hawaii Today and the Hawaii Tribune-Herald from Las Vegas-based Stephens Media. Associated Press.

The owner of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser is expanding by purchasing the two Hawaii island newspapers. Oahu Publications Inc. announced Wednesday that it has agreed to acquire the Hawaii Tribune-Herald and West Hawaii Today from Las Vegas-based Stephens Media LLC. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s parent company, Oahu Publications Inc., is expanding its reach over Hawaii media. OPI President Dennis Francis announced Wednesday that the company is buying both Big Island daily newspapers, the Hawaii Tribune-Herald and West Hawaii Today, for an undisclosed amount from Stephens Media, based in Las Vegas. Civil Beat.

Oahu Publications Inc. announced today that it has agreed to acquire the Hawaii Tribune-Herald and West Hawaii Today on Hawaii Island from Las Vegas-based Stephens Media LLC. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A controversial change in Hawaii Administrative Rules that would require the replacement of cesspools with septic systems upon the sale of properties will receive a hearing this month on Maui and Molokai. Maui News

A unique experience in Hawaiian culture is nestled in the deep reaches of Waiheʻe Valley where the Maui Hawaiian Village hosts tours and demonstrations in authentic food preparation, clothing design and shelter construction. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hearing Friday on proposed fishing rules for Haena. Garden Island.

Circuit Court tosses former Speaker Calvin Say's residency challenge, gubernatorial candidates differ on budget, new boss for Kamehameha Schools, Hawaii County builds roads to dodge lava flow, Maui to talk GMO, coral bleaching worsens, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former House Speaker Calvin Say © 2014 All Hawaii News

A Circuit Court judge Tuesday dismissed a legal challenge to state Rep. and former House Speaker Calvin Say's residency, ruling that the state House has the exclusive power to determine the qualifications of its members. Star-Advertiser.

Calvin Say has survived another challenge to his legal residency. In a ruling released Tuesday, Circuit Judge Karen Nakasone said Hawaii courts do not have authority to “judge” the qualifications of House members. That authority resides with the House, which intervened in a lawsuit challenging Say’s residency. Civil Beat.

A Circuit Court judge has dismissed a petition that asks the court to verify the residence of state Rep. Calvin Say. KHON2.

Hawaii gubernatorial candidates had tough questions for their opponents as they debated starting new public-private partnerships to address recurring problems and sparred over who would inflict less pain while balancing the budget. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s top three candidates for governor took on many issues — from the expected to the improbable — during Tuesday evening’s debate. But it remains unclear whether specific policy stances will drive voters on Nov. 4 when they choose between Democrat David Ige, Republican Duke Aiona, Hawaii Independent Party candidate Mufi Hannemann and Libertarian Jeff Davis. Civil Beat.

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann on Tuesday night tried to pin state Sen. David Ige with responsibility for the state's troubled public hospitals, but Ige countered that he has done more than the other two gubernatorial candidates to improve the system. Star-Advertiser.

KITV4 hosted three candidates gunning for the governorship in the station's first televised debate among the final gubernatorial candidates.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said he has far more executive experience than the other two leading candidates for governor, but they said they have backgrounds that prepare them to lead state government. Hawaii News Now.

State Public Safety Director Ted Sakai, named the nation's Outstanding Director of Corrections on Tuesday, said his department is unveiling a pilot program on wellness this month that aims to reduce prison guard sick calls, starting at Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Mark Takai are making last-minute pitches for more money as their tight congressional race enters its final 35 days. Civil Beat.

Livingston "Jack" Wong, who has been the interim CEO of Kamehameha Schools since April when CEO Dee Jay Mailer retired, has been named the third CEO of the $10.1 billion trust, Hawaii's largest private landowner. Pacific Business News.

Warm ocean temperatures have caused large expanses of coral to bleach in the pristine reefs northwest of Hawaii's main islands, scientists said Tuesday. Mass bleaching has occurred at Lisianski atoll, about 1,000 miles northwest of Honolulu, said Courtney Couch, a researcher at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. Coral also bleached at Midway, Pearl and Hermes atolls, but not as severely. Associated Press.

A federal research ship returned to Honolulu from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands on Tuesday with evidence of aquatic species never seen before and having made discoveries of fishes never before recorded in those waters. But scientists also documented some distressing news: a major episode of coral bleaching at remote Lisianski Island, plus moderate bleaching at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge and Pearl and Hermes Atoll. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State lawmakers Tuesday grilled Honolulu's police chief and two of his deputies on policies regarding domestic violence investigations — seeking answers about how officers respond to calls and about what's being done in response to video showing an officer in an apparent assault on his girlfriend. Star-Advertiser.

A Joint Legislative Committee on Public Safety convened an informational briefing today on the Honolulu Police Department’s response to domestic violence cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell plans to create a temporary office to manage city properties, acquire housing for the homeless and advance his affordable housing strategy at a cost of about $500,000 a year, the city’s managing director says. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers and Hawaiian Electric Co. want to give utility customers who don't own rooftop space the opportunity to take advantage of certain benefits of renewable energy. The plan is to create community solar farms or "solar gardens" that give people the option to invest in large-scale solar systems and lower their electrical bills. Star-Advertiser.

Duo bucks eviction from DHHL parcel hosting small farm. A petting zoo on land in Waimanalo has local support as it fights to remain. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Office of Elections was “absurdly out of touch” with the situation in Puna after Tropical Storm Iselle, state Sen. Russell Ruderman said Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

The June 27 lava flow remains weak while inflation, a sign of intruding magma, gradually builds at Kilauea. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Lava Anxiety Triggers Nanawale Exodus. Big Island Video News.

In less than three weeks, Hawai'i County crews completed two emergency bypass roads in the lower Puna area in preparation for the very real possibility that the June 27th lava flow will cut across Highway 130 -- but work is a little slower to begin on a third, and likely the most critical route: Chain of Craters Road, which passes through Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County plans to reinforce its restrictions on accessing Kaohe Homesteads after a tour company was found to be using the neighborhood to reach the June 27 lava flow. County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira said a supplemental emergency proclamation will be issued shortly specifically prohibiting tour groups. Tribune-Herald.

Fall enrollment at University of Hawaii at Hilo declined for the second year in a row, despite hopes by administrators the university could maintain last year’s student levels. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

"Living Downwind from Monsanto's GMO Fields, are We Risking Our Health?" is the title of a panel discussion to be held on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Kihei Community Center. Maui Weekly.

Maui Electric Co. proposes to reduce customer bills by, among other things, switching from costly diesel fuel to lower-cost liquefied natural gas for its electric generation plants, but Maui County Energy Commissioner Doug McLeod is challenging other parts of the utility's power supply improvement plans and questioning the long-term viability of natural gas. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council will consider today a set of seven measures that aim to reform current real property tax laws and assist some property owners who received noticeable increases on their tax bills over the past two months. Garden Island.

Craig DeCosta, Daniel Hempey, and Greg Meyers will each be known as Judge, effective Oct. 1. Garden Island.

Honolulu rail, other votes could be invalidated in City Council gift ethics probe, med fly wasp to be released, 21 state employees fined for accepting free rounds of golf, search on for 1,400 special ed students due aid, Maui growing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach © 2014 All Hawaii News

Although visitor arrivals in August declined slightly and spending was flat against the same month last year, year-to-date results for Hawaii's visitor industry continue to surpass last year's records. Star-Advertiser.

Twenty-one state employees have agreed to pay a combined $16,500 in fines for accepting free rounds of golf from private contractors, consultants and vendors, according to a settlement with the Hawaii State Ethics Commission. The resolution issued Monday by the commission does not name any of the state employees, instead only identifying them by department and position. Civil Beat.

A tiny wasp that attacks harmful Mediterranean fruit flies could be released in Hawaii. The University of Hawaii has applied to a state agency for permission to release wasps to attack the pest also known as "medflies" that cause millions of dollars in damage to crops. Associated Press.

National Dems Play the Democrat Card for David Ige. The Democratic Governors Association TV spot counters a previous Republican Governors Association spot on behalf of James Duke Aiona. Civil Beat.

A federal judge has ruled that some 1,800 special-education students who did not earn a high school diploma before they aged out of Hawaii's public school system at 20 years old are entitled to free educational services to make up for the two years they were denied schooling as allowed under U.S. law. Star-Advertiser.

More than 1,400 former special needs students are being sought out by the Department of Education. KITV4.

Hawaii is the only state that isn’t broken up by multiple school districts. That means Hawaii — whose population of roughly 1.4 million people makes it the 11th smallest state —  actually encompasses one of the largest school districts in the country. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Hawaii’s candidates for governor and the 1st Congressional District may be too squeaky clean and Boy Scout-ish for any dirt to emerge about them in the upcoming election. Civil Beat.

State roundup for Sept. 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

Key votes on the city rail transit project and other issues might be invalidated because Honolulu City Council members failed to disclose conflicts of interest after being wined and dined by lobbyists. Hawaii News Now.

State Rep. Romy Cachola says former colleagues on the Honolulu City Council accepted the same meals that Ethics Commission staff accuse him of taking illegally. And if that's the case, Cachola says, their actions collectively could call into question the legality of some crucial decisions the Council has made, including ones that cleared the way for the city's $5.26 billion rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Just days after word emerged that state Rep. Romy Cachola had agreed to pay a $50,000 fine over dozens of alleged ethics violations relating to gifts and transportation expenses when he was on the Honolulu City Council, he took aim at former colleagues, arguing that they engaged in similar behavior. Civil Beat.

Ethics violations cast doubt over City Council’s integrity. After an investigation into alleged ethics violations, State Rep. and former City Councilmember Romy Cachola has been ordered to pay a $50,000 fine. Hawaii Independent.

City Ethics Commission widens illegal gift probe. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu City Council member Romy Cachola is paying a big fine over alleged ethics violations. Now, the Honolulu Ethics Commission is investigating several other current and former city council members after Cachola said he’s not the only one who should be in the hot seat. KHON2.

About two dozen city ground maintenance workers are expected to attend Tuesday's initial training session on how to spot and eradicate invasive fire ants and coconut rhinoceros beetles. Star-Advertiser.

Food safety placards are putting the pressure on Hawaii restaurant owners. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Health has fined the owners of Iyo Udon restaurant at Ala Moana Center $11,000 for intentionally removing a yellow "conditional pass" placard and for food safety violations during a health inspection. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The leading edge of the Puna lava flow has not advanced since Sunday morning, but the northern edge of the flow front is active and the breakout upslope has progressed forward another 100 yards -- according to a flyover by Hawai‘i County Civil Defense officials Monday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island Civil Defense officials long ago gave up on the idea of trying to halt a river of 2,100-degree molten lava heading along a path of destruction toward Pahoa. But they're certainly listening to ideas coming out of the lower Puna district about how to get both people and supplies in and out if 8,500 residents get trapped behind the lava spewing from Kilauea Volcano. Star-Advertiser.

Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille thinks she may have found the way to eliminate fraudulent use of the homeowner property tax exemption. Wille, who has been serving on the county’s Real Property Tax Task Force, is proposing that the credit only be available for people who file a Hawaii state income tax return listing themselves as full-year residents of the island. West Hawaii Today.

The Village Green Society and Hawaii’s Volcano Circus will be fined $53,743 for building illegal structures on state land and removing protected trees. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources approved the fines Friday after an investigation found several structures on state land adjacent to VGS’ Bellyacres community in Kalapana Seaview Estates. Tribune-Herald.

Kale Gumapac, who has challenged the legitimacy of land titles in the state, plans to make his case for Hawaiian sovereignty at a court hearing in November. Tribune-Herald.

Despite Tropical Storm Iselle and the current threat of the June 27 lava flow, Hawaii Island is expected to continue its recovery from the Great Recession in the coming year, according to economist Dr. Jack Suyderhoud. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A bill to create agricultural conservation lots in Maui County will be heard Tuesday afternoon by the Maui County Council's Economic Development, Energy, Agriculture and Recreation Committee. Maui News.

A U.S. Census report last week put Maui County’s estimated population at 160,195 for 2013, up 3 percent from 2010, and offered a socio-economic view of Maui County residents. Associated Press.

Maui experienced the largest growth in visitor spending for first eight months of 2014, reaching $2.8 billion, according to new data released by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

Cynthia Reeves began her new job as Maui County administrator for the University of Hawaii-Manoa's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources last week, UH announced Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

The outbreak of black band coral disease on Kauai’s North Shore and a controversial biologist documenting it will be subjects of a documentary style reality TV series. Garden Island.

Hawaii-based Manu Kai LLC has been awarded a $74.3 million contract under a previously awarded contract to provide range operations support and base operations support at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai for another year. Pacific Business News.

The Kauai Board of Realtors and the Hawaii Association of Realtors are opposing revisions to wastewater regulations being proposed by the Department of Health. A public meeting on cesspool, septic system and other wastewater related regulations is scheduled at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Kauai District Health Office. Garden Island.

Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg is the likely buyer of a 357-acre beachfront estate on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai’s North Shore, according to a source close to the situation. Pacific Business News.

Chicken causes major power outage. Garden Island.

University of Hawaii plans no tuition hike, Aloha Petroleum sold, Honolulu police chief denies special treatment, plastic bag ban signed, lava slows, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii Manoa campus © 2014 All Hawaii News

The University of Hawaii has come up with a draft operating budget that assumes zero tuition increases over the next two fiscal years, but officials say the decision to adjust tuition up or down won't happen until May, after the Legislature finalizes the state's budget. Star-Advertiser.

No More PLDCs: Hawaii’s Top Gov Candidates Talk Development. Mufi Hannemann, David Ige and Duke Aiona share ideas on tackling the housing shortage, preserving farmland and improving land use controls. Civil Beat.

State Sen. David Ige, asked on Thursday evening whether he has the leadership ability and charisma to inspire Hawaii as governor, said his nearly three decades in the Legislature and private sector experience have prepared him. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Petroleum Ltd., which markets 100 Shell, Aloha and Mahalo branded gas stations and operates 44 Aloha Island Mart convenience stores statewide, is being purchased by a mainland partnership for $240 million. Star-Advertiser.

The sale of Hawaii’s Aloha Petroleum to Houston, Texas-based Susser Petroleum Partners is good news for the state, according to a couple of industry consultants. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The City and County of Honolulu moved one step closer to an outright ban on all plastic shopping bags today. A bill was signed into law at Ala Moana Beach Park and will strengthen the plastic ban when it’s implemented next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

The bill the Mayor signed today (Bill 38, CD2) amends a law enacted in 2012 under the previous mayoral administration (Ordinance 12-8), implementing a ban on plastic and non-recyclable paper bags set to take effect July 1, 2015. Hawaii Independent.

When someone stole Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha's mailbox in Kahala last year, the HPD turned to its crime reduction unit to make the arrest. What's raising questions is that the department sent at least six officers for what appears to be a minor crime and that the man arrested is an uncle of the chief's wife, who's involved in a financial dispute with her. Hawaii News Now.

Blue Angels practice triggers noise complaints, flight delays. KHON2.

Zip line planned for Waikiki resort. An activities company wants to establish a high-flying ride over a public beachside lagoon. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Publications Inc., publisher of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, is launching a new publication called Metro on Wednesday. The free community newspaper will be distributed weekly to downtown Honolulu, Nuuanu, Kakaako, Manoa and McCully.

Hawaii

Tourism is booming in Kohala, one of several bits of good news economist Jack Suyderhoud highlighted Thursday during the 40th annual First Hawaiian Bank Economic economic outlook forum. West Hawaii Today.

Hawai'i County Civil Defense officials say Thursday morning's assessment shows the leading surface edge of the Puna lava flow is still inactive and has not advanced since Wednesday. They say the flow front remains approximately 100 yards wide. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Education on Thursday announced a plan to build an alternate classroom site for elementary school students and teachers in Pahoa who may be displaced by lava. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Environmentalists and sustainability advocates are hoping to move the county more toward a zero waste policy, but council members are uncertain how such a move would affect the administration's recently signed contract with Anaergia Inc. to build a waste-to-energy facility. Maui News.

Kauai

A homeless man who struck a man who was harassing his wife received a $1 fine for a violation on Thursday in 5th Circuit Court. Garden Island.

Hawaii mulls new limits on fish, Honolulu mayor to sign amended plastic bag ban, Ellison gets $67.3M final Oracle paycheck, tuition increase may shrink, Ethics Commission resists disclosure law, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Uhu, parrotfish, in Hawaii © 2014 All Hawaii News

State fishing regulators are considering new bag and size limits for parrotfish, or uhu, and types of weke, or goatfish, caught off the island of Maui. The Board of Land and Natural Resources will consider the rules at a meeting on Friday. Associated Press.

The state will consider approval of new fishing rules that would establish bag and size limits for uhu or parrotfish and kūmū or goatfish caught in Maui waters. Maui Now.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources is considering adopting new fishing rules that would place bag and size limits for parrotfish (uhu) and goatfish in waters around Maui. Maui News.

New rules could be imposed for fishermen on Maui. Could the same limits be put into place on other islands? The Department of Land and Natural Resources will consider approving the new rules on Friday. KHON2.

The White House announced late Wednesday that President Barack Obama would prohibit fishing in three of America’s remote island territories in the Pacific by declaring them marine national monuments. In June, Obama had proposed closing five areas, which would have doubled the no-take zone. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission on Wednesday reaffirmed its decision to withhold the financial disclosure statements of more than 100 current state board members who filed their annual reports before a new law took effect July 8. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii students may see a smaller tuition increase than expected next year under a proposal being considered by the budget committee of the Board of Regents. Instead of the 7.5 percent increase now planned over the next two years, students would see their tuition rise annually by only 2 percent in the latest plan to help cover the university's huge deferred maintenance backlog. Star-Advertiser.

Saying changes need to be made to reduce their pain and inconvenience, patients and caregivers testified Wednesday evening in favor of establishing statewide medical marijuana dispensaries. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian business caucus. OHA will hold a new caucus for Hawaiian businesses owners at the upcoming Native Hawaiian Convention. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

Changes to Oahu's plastic bag ban are coming as Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell signs an amended version of the plastic bag ban bill that will go into effect next year. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said Wednesday that it has completed installing 5,200 smart meters in six different neighborhoods on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Police in Kapolei and Pearl City are investigating reports of three attempts to kidnap elementary school-age students in Ewa Beach and Waipahu within the past five days. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County is looking at its options should the June 27 lava flow cover Highway 130, from removing a portion of the road beforehand to use of a temporary span after the flow has moved through. Tribune-Herald.

The front of the June 27 lava flow may remain stalled more than 2 miles above Pahoa, but it has already resulted in the closure of at least two private schools in the community. Tribune-Herald.

Video: Recent Footage of June 27 Lava Flow. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A Paia political activist said that she has filed a complaint with the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission alleging disclosure violations by the Hawaii Carpenters Recovery Market Fund, which has supported Maui County Council candidate Ka'ala Buenconsejo's campaign through super PAC Forward Progress. Maui News.

Kauai

Four nonprofit organizations and Kauai County are appealing a federal judge's decision to invalidate a Kauai County law pertaining to pesticides and genetically modified crops. Ka Makani Ho‘opono, the Center for Food Safety, the Pesticide Action Network North America and the Surfrider Foundation — represented by Earthjustice and the Center for Food Safety — filed an appeal in the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday, challenging U.S. Magistrate Judge Barry Kurren's decision that overturned Ordinance 960 (formerly Bill 2491). Kauai County filed its appeal Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, who owns Hawaii's island of Lanai and interisland airline Island Air, got his final paycheck from Oracle Corp. — $67.3 million in stock options and bonus cash — after stepping down from the CEO post last week. Pacific Business News.

Federal judge says Hawaii can't deny guns to immigrants, gubernatorial candidates agree health exchange a mistake, Hawaii congressional candidates have key differences, recycled glass piling up on Oahu, lava flow slows, spreads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii federal courthouse

A federal judge says a Hawaii law that prohibits immigrants from getting a firearms permit is unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Michael Seabright granted a motion last week, which allows Steve Fotoudis, a permanent resident in Honolulu, to apply for a firearms permit. KHON2.

Three candidates competing to represent Hawaii as governor agreed that Hawaii made mistakes in the way it built its troubled health exchange. Associated Press.

Civil Beat Poll: Public-Private Preschool Amendment Divides Voters. In other constitutional questions on ballot, voters oppose increasing the retirement ages of judges, but want the names of nominees made public.

First Congressional District candidates Charles Djou and Mark Takai on Tuesday night mixed it up for the first time, restating their Republican and Democratic party philosophies to a predominantly pro-business audience at a Chamber of Commerce Hawaii forum. Star-Advertiser.

Djou and Takai: Similar Backgrounds, Vastly Different Style. The congressional candidates differ over Jones Act and war on ISIS in Tuesday night event. In a bonus bout, the candidates for governor go after each other. Civil Beat.

The debate is on between Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Mark Takai.  For the first time Hawaii's Congressional Candidates for district one squared off face to face in front of 100 of the state's top business leaders from the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Political activist Karen Chun of Maui has filed a complaint with the Hawaiʻi Campaign Spending Commission alleging that the Hawaiʻi Carpenters Recovery Market Fund has violated state law by not disclosing the original source of their funds. Maui Now.

State agrees to revise public demonstration rules. An ACLU first amendment lawsuit has been settled with the state promising to change its rules concerning public demonstrations on state property to make it easier to exercise first amendment rights. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii business executives Chris Eldridge, who founded Hawaii's largest mattress supplier and is a partner in a local biofuel project, and Dustin Sellers, who was co-president of one of Hawaii's largest HR services provider, are moving from the operational side of business and getting into investments. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department's criminal investigation into the alleged domestic abuse case involving Sgt. Darren Cachola has been completed and turned over to city Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro, according to HPD Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

An unusual look behind the scenes of a corporate public relations campaign has been provided by an ongoing class action lawsuit pitting homeowners in a major planned community in Ewa against the developer of the project. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now has learned that more than 14,000 tons of crushed glass wound up in a Mililani farm -- even though the city paid more than a million dollars to process it for recycling.

Honolulu City Council District Four is home to some of the richest residents in the state.   Stretching from Hawai’i Kai to Waikiki, the district has the highest property values on O’ahu.  The Kahala Business Association hosted the two candidates running to represent the area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

If lower Puna is cut off from the rest of the island because of lava, more than 250 businesses and more than 9,400 residents could be severely impacted. Tribune-Herald.

Puna Geothermal Venture Plant Manager Cliff Townsend and Director of Hawaiian Affairs Mike Kaleikini discuss contingency plans at a meeting held Monday night at Kua O Ka La Charter School. Big Island Video News.

Maui

More than a dozen dogs have been roaming the Front Street area of Lahaina for the past couple of months, killing pets and feral cats and prompting residents' calls for help from the Maui Humane Society and Maui police. Maui News.

Hawaii could send a Republican to Congress, Inouye allegations revived in tell-all book, gubernatorial candidates debate, monk seals increase, Larry Ellison plans a new Lanai, lava evacuation emergency route begins, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

late Sen. Daniel Inouye © 2008 All Hawaii News

Daniel Inouye, the late U.S. senator from Hawaii, allegedly was the male colleague of fellow Demo­crat Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York who held Gillibrand's waist and told her, "Don't lose too much weight now. I like my girls chubby," The New York Times reported Monday, citing anonymous sources. Star-Advertiser.

Old accusations that the late U.S. Sen. Dan Inouye forced his Hawaii hairdresser to have sex have with him received new life, thanks to a blog in the New York Times Monday. Civil Beat.

The man who represents Hawaii Republicans’ best hope to pick up a congressional seat has a 4 percentage point lead over his Democratic opponent. Charles Djou leads Mark Takai 46-42 percent in Civil Beat’s latest poll. Just 12 percent of voters are undecided.

With Gov. Neil Abercrombie out of the political picture, the four candidates running for Hawaii governor came together for the first time in the general election campaign Monday night and vowed to lead the state in a new direction. Star-Advertiser.

Gubernatorial Candidates Begin String of Joint Appearances. Aiona wants to reconsider an undersea power cable; Ige wants to reform taxes; Hannemann suggests tent cities; Davis says to legalize pot, allow offshore gambling. Civil Beat.

The number of endangered Hawaiian monk seal pups and juveniles in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands has increased slightly this year, scientists reported after a recent research mission. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Experts in Hawaii's photovoltaic industry estimate that last year there were more than 5,000 electricians and installers working for solar companies. That number has plummeted to about 2,000. Hawaii News Now.

A human rights group wants the state Board of Land and Natural Resources to rethink its decision to give a three-year lease to the city for its homeless transition center. Star-Advertiser.

Federal funding for Oahu transportation projects could be slashed by about $12 million annually unless the state and city make a slew of changes to the group tasked with prioritizing the island's major road projects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Kohala Center on Hawaii's Big Island has received a $2 million federal grant to develop an agricultural business accelerator. Associated Press.

ACLU declares First Amendment victory. Judge Susan Mollway granted a temporary restraining order against Hawaiʻi County last week in Kona “Panhandling” case. Hawaii Independent.

A Hawaii County bulldozer will begin building a path Tuesday through lava rock covering a nearly 8-mile stretch of Chain of Craters Road to create another alternate route for residents threatened by the June 27 lava flow. Tribune-Herald.

West Hawaii’s Congressional representative told state officials this week she doesn’t see a scientific need to designate the Keauhou Aquifer as a water management area. West Hawaii Today.

Just before she adjourned an informational briefing at Kona Community Hospital, House Health Committee Chairwoman Della Belatti offered one final insight into how the Legislature may try to address state health system woes. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council’s Infrastructure and Environmental Management Committee will host a panel discussion on Tuesday to consider the adoption of principles relating to zero waste as a waste management policy for the County. Maui Now.

Proposed changes to the state’s wastewater management policy could affect some 77,000 homeowners on the neighbor islands, according to State Senator Roz Baker of Maui. Maui Now.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is making available $8.9 million in grant money to community-based organizations that can help address key priorities of improving conditions for Native Hawaiians. Maui News.

Kauai

The Planning Department will hold two open houses in the coming weeks to highlight the draft South Kauai Community Plan, maps and zoning overlays. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison has sketched out a rough picture for a new era on Lanai. It is how the world's fifth-richest person sees the future of an island he owns. Yet without fine details, it's hard for many residents to judge whether the picture is nice or not. Star-Advertiser.

Ige leads gubernatorial poll, Hawaii Micronesians ask Supreme Court for health care, Ellison plans to triple Lanai City, lava advance slows, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

© 2014 All Hawaii News

Democrat David Ige has a 4 percentage point lead over Republican Duke Aiona in the Hawaii governor’s race. Ige, a state senator, is up 43 percent to 39 percent over Aiona, the former lieutenant governor. Just 8 percent of voters favor Mufi Hannemann, the former Honolulu mayor running as the candidate of the Hawaii Independent Party. Civil Beat.

While Hawaii doctors get paid slightly more than the national average, the state has the third-highest cost of living, making it difficult to attract and retain physicians, according to the Hawaii Medical Association. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission will consider a request this week by Civil Beat and the League of Women Voters to release the financial disclosure statements of dozens of powerful state board members. The news outlet and good-government group want the documents filed by members of the 15 boards that the Legislature unanimously required to publicly disclose their financial interests.

Hawai‘i’s alternative industries get a boost. More than $5 million in federal grants will help develop Hawai‘i's agriculture, clean tech, manufacturing and healthcare industries. Hawaii Independent.

Three Micronesians living in Hawaii are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear their case about being denied health benefits by the state. The appeal, which was submitted Sept. 9, is being described by attorneys for the plaintiffs as an urgent matter. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Robert Bley-Vroman, interim chancellor for the University of Hawaii at Manoa, has called for an internal review of the UH Cancer Center. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Lava from the June 27 flow continued to advance slowly Sunday as fire fighters worked to contain a brushfire nearby. Hawaii County Civil Defense reported Sunday that the flow advanced 75 yards between its daily overflights. Tribune-Herald.

A public hearing by the state House Health Committee is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday at Kona Community Hospital in Kealakekua. Tribune-Herald.

Companies, researchers looking for new ways to protect Hawaii’s reefs. West Hawaii Today.

Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an order requiring the County of Hawaii to repair the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant’s ocean outfall pipe. The pipe is leaking treated wastewater close to shore, posing a potential risk to the marine environment and public health. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui

Only planes with nine passengers or less currently use Hana Airport, but the state is planning to add features that would allow the remote airport to accommodate larger aircraft with up to 30 passenger seats. Maui News.

Fast-food chains at the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center were among the first Maui eateries to receive the state Health Department's new food safety placards, and so far, the store managers say they're happy with the new system. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Fire Department wants to hear from the public about what kind of service it wants in the future. But meetings so far in Kapaa, Koloa and Kilauea drew little interest. Garden Island.

The first in a two-part series looking at a loophole in the medical marijuana industry that allows patients to possess and use the substance, but not obtain it unless they grow it themselves. Garden Island.

The second in a two-part series looking at a loophole in the medical marijuana industry that allows patients to possess and use the substance in Hawaii, but not obtain it unless they grow it themselves. Garden Island.

Lanai

His Island, His Vision. Larry Ellison plans to triple the size of tiny Lanai City and double the population. First there was the world's largest pineapple plantation. Then there were a pair of fancy resorts. As the principal industry on Lanai, neither was diversified and both proved financially unsustainable. Star-Advertiser.

This blogger's greatest challenge: Keeping the news alive

The greatest challenge to running a one-person news aggregate blog is this:

How do I take a vacation?

Because All Hawaii News collects and highlights the day's top government and political news, it's simply not possible to prewrite and schedule posts.

I usually find some time on vacation days to skim through my long list of media sites and post the best of them for the day. I need to keep on top of the biggest news of the day anyway, even if I am on vacation.

Sometimes, I'll write a few articles in advance and substitute them for the daily aggregate. However, with vacation looming and articles not prewritten, this doesn't appear to be one of those times.

So, please bear with me, loyal readers, if the schedule is a bit erratic over the next couple of weeks. Everyone needs a few days off, especially with an exciting gubernatorial election coming in November.

All Hawaii News isn't fancy, but it wins awards. You can read what the judges said here.

By the way, this would be a perfect time to help keep the news alive.

All Hawaii News is a labor of love. I've been doing this day in and day out for more than five years now. Advertising is kept to a minimum.

Small contributions from loyal followers help pay to keep All Hawaii News online. A donation no matter how modest is seen as a vote of confidence in my efforts.

How to donate:

1.     Click the donate button at the top right of the page.
2.     Donate using a major credit card or PayPal account.
3.     Send an email to nclauer@gmail.com to get your name and/or link on the sponsor list. (otherwise, your gift will remain anonymous)

Mahalo to everyone who clicks, comments or contributes to All Hawaii News. I can't do it without you!

Signed,
Publisher, aggregator, columnist, editor and chief bottle-washer Nancy Cook Lauer